Identifying the habitual needs of novice strength and conditioning coaches

Abstract

Strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches are physical performance professionals who require years of education, training and experience to become recognised specialists. Specific actions, behaviours and industry tools have been established to help S&C coaches become more effective, however these are targeted at those who already have some experience. Less is known about how neophyte S&C coaches are educated, and what technical skills and psychosocial behaviours are prioitised in the profession. The aim of this study was to critique the literature on how S&C coaches are educated and identify specific components that are influential to novice S&C coach education. A systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, was conducted using EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus databases. Guided by Shulman’s (2005) signature pedagogy framework, the review identified the habits of mind, hand and heart implemented within the profession. The habits of mind identified themes relating to the importance of reflective practice, communities of practice and observation. Habits of hand identified the benefits of hands-on experience in industry settings and simulated practice. Habits of heart are the personal values and philosophies that underpin S&C practice and are used to develop good coach-athlete relationships. Hands-on practical experience combined with structured reflective practice provides the best opportunity for novice S&C coaches to develop the required technical skills and psychosocial behaviours of the profession.